Best of 2017: Live Shows

October 27, 2017: DJ Aaron Axelson, Lewis Ofman, Yelle

Rickshaw Stop, San Francisco CA

Popscene became my favorite concert sponsor this year, in no large part because of the skills of their DJs. This show surpassed my low expectations to be a great time of dancing and grooving and new music discoveries.

February 23, 2017: Rad Dad, Gibbz

The Hotel Utah Saloon, San Francisco CA

A local band opened for an undersung nu-disco artist, Gibbz. A great way to open p Noise Pop week 2017, and unexpectedly great sound quality for such a small space. Excited to see Gibbz play again next year.

September 19, 2017: NVDES, RAC

The Independent, San Francisco CA

RAC has put on a spectactularly dance-able show every time I’ve seen them. This most recent adventure did not disappoint.

April 16, 2017: Sampha, The XX

Bill Graham Civic Auditorium, San Francisco CA

I would pay Jamie XX to DJ my life, but I can’t afford it. I could afford this show, though. It was incredible. Sampha was great too. Highlight: a mirror that appeared partway through the set that gave the audience a view of Jamie XX’s DJing and his dorky dance moves.

September 13, 2017: The Dirty Nil, Bleached, Against Me!

Regency Ballroom, San Francisco CA

Just as good as they were 10 years ago when I saw them in Chicago, if not better. A restorative and energetic show.

February 4 2017: Wheatus, Mike Doughty

The Independent, San Francisco CA

Wheatus played old hits and new jams, and Mike Doughty pulled them out to back him as he played a bunch of Soul Coughing songs. I was there more for his solo songs, but the artistry and adventure of his live conducting of the band behind him made for an incredible show that was supremely groove-able.